The Job Of A Developmental Editor

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By Sharon Edwards


Whether writing creatively, technically or creating non-fiction books and materials, these items often need to be reviewed prior to publication. In many cases, these individuals work as business or technical editors. Whereas, an independent author working on a creative or non-fiction project often needs a Developmental Editor.

In most cases, these type editors work on full length manuscripts. Materials which these individuals edit range from books of fiction, non-fiction, poetry and prose to educational materials. In addition, while the main focus is often to check for correct grammar and spelling, these individuals often need to look at the whole picture. In doing so, one needs to have the ability to determine whether a story, or other material can relate to an indented audience.

In most cases, these individuals work as freelancers, consultants or contractors. Although, there are some who may work directly for a publishing company or other entity as a permanent employee. While this is the case, those working as consultants, contractors and freelancers are often going to be the highest paid in this area. One reason being, that when an individual works directly for a company, the person often gets a number of benefits not allowed those working on a contract or short-term basis.

Whether reviewing an entire manuscript, or sections at a time, it is important to note any errors such as misspellings, grammatically incorrect content and pacing, then inform the writer of these errors as soon as possible. For, in some cases, a writer may be working against a deadline, especially if one has received an advance payment in relation to the project. Otherwise, the next time an advance is requested, it could be denied based on the writer having not met a previous deadline.

It is important that an individual working in this position enjoys reading. In most cases, editors need to put oneself in the place of an intended audience. For, while writers are often at the helm of the project, the goal is to create a publication which a reader can read and enjoy. As such, when reading as an intended audience, editors can assure this is the case.

It is also important to take breaks as necessary during the course of a project. Otherwise, an individual might easily overlook an error. As such, whether reading the material for the first, fourth or fifth time, it is important to pay attention to detail.

In the final phase of the project, editors are often the last eyes to see the publication before it goes to a publisher. As such, most writers count on these individuals to catch any and all mistakes prior to this point. For, once a manuscript is published, it can often be far more expensive to fix errors.

In most cases, publishing houses or independent authors will return a final draft back to the editor. After which, the editor needs to check and review all aspects of the book or project. At this phase, it is important that all elements including front and back cover, title of contents, forewords and other materials be checked in entirety to assure everything is in the proper place and that all content is correct.




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